Health Improvement Scotland are inviting people across Scotland who are currently using Sodium Valproate, or who have done so since August 2023 to share their experiences with us. Medication that contains Valproate could include Belvo, Convulex, Depakote, Dyzantil, Epilim, Epilim Chrono or Chronosphere, Episenta, Epival, and Syonell.
We are looking to talk with people who are:
- currently taking Valproate or have stopped taking Valproate since August 2023
- women and men able to become pregnant or get someone pregnant if not on contraception
- between 12 – 55 years old
or
- carers of people with the above characteristics
We are keen to talk with people who have different characteristics and backgrounds, for example, people living in rural and remote areas, people from minority ethnic backgrounds, and LGBT+ individuals.
We will be doing individual interviews from November 2024 until June 2025. Interviews are expected to last between 30-60 minutes.
This work will inform NHS Boards’ plans for the safe use of Valproate. This will ensure person-centred, safe, and effective implementation of new measures.
In the case that we get high interest for this activity, we may not be able to interview everyone, but we will get in touch with you in due course.
If you would like to find out more or would like to take part, please email us at his.engagementevidence@nhs.scot
You can find further information in the below information sheet –
GV Sodium Valproate Experience – Information sheet and consent form v0.7 (003)
